Landscape and Visual Appraisal Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn January 2021

2469/R07/LVA/EF/RH Birmingham • Cotswolds • Exeter • • Manchester

Report No. Date Author / Checked

2469/R07 08/01/2021 EF/RH Contents Plans

Section 1: Introduction and Site Context 1 2469/P01: Plan 1: Site Location

Section 2: Policy Context 4 2469/P09: Plan 2: Site Context

Section 3: Landscape and Visual Baseline 8 2469/P10: Plan 3: Policy

Section 4: Visual Study 16 2469/P11: Plan 4: Landscape Character

Section 5: Development Proposals 27 2469/P12: Plan 5: Topography

Section 6: Implications of Development 29 2469/P13: Plan 6: ZTV

Section 7: Conclusion 31 2469/P14: Plan 7: Viewpoint Location

2469/P15: Plan 8: Visual Field

2469/P16: Plan 9: Opportunities and Constraints

2469/P17: Plan 10: Landscape Strategy

This report, all plans, illustrations, and other associated material remains the property of Tyler Grange Group Ltd until paid for in full. Copyright and intellectual property rights remain with Tyler Grange Group Ltd.

The contents of this report are valid at the time of writing. Tyler Grange shall not be liable for any use of this report other than for the purposes for which it was produced. Owing to the dynamic nature of ecological, landscape, and arboricultural resources, if more than twelve months have elapsed since the date of this report, further advice must be taken before you rely on the contents of this report. Notwithstanding any provision of the Tyler Grange Group Ltd Terms & Conditions, Tyler Grange Group Ltd shall not be liable for any losses (howsoever incurred) arising as a result of reliance by the client or any third party on this report more than 12 months after the date of this report.

1 Introduction and Site Context

Background Plan 1: Site Location (2469/P09) 1.1 Tyler Grange have been appointed by Barratt to provide landscape consultancy services in relation to the Site Boundary planning application for the development of up to 331 dwellings on land at Pearl Lane, Sourport-on-Severn.

Site Context 1.2 The site location and its surroundings are illustrated on Plan 1: Site Location.

1.3 The site is located within the parish of Dunley, on the western settlement edge of , and within the administrative boundaries of the District.

1.4 The western edge of Stourport-on-Severn and the site area sit within an area of rolling topography, that rises from the lower lying land adjacent to the , forming a crescent shaped bowl of rolling hills to the north, west and south. The landform across the site slopes up from 40m AOD in the south to 50m AOD in the north where it forms a plateau for much of the northern area.

1.5 The topography and rising landform across the site generally reflects that to the east upon which the adjacent settlement edge is built. To the southwest of the site, the land begins to slope up again towards the hillside beyond.

1.6 The site covers approximately 15.07 hectares of arable fields surrounded on all four sides by native hedgerows and a 5-10m wide tree belt comprising predominantly semi-mature Silver Birch and Scots Pine. An established hedgerow including scattered mature Oak trees delineate the remnant field pattern across the site. There are also portions of metal estate fencing remaining on site following sections of the field boundaries. A single free standing oak tree is situated within a field to the south of the site.

Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn 1 Landscape and Visual Appraisal 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 1 Introduction and Site Context

Plan 2: Site Context (2469/P10)

Site Boundary

Stourport on Severn Areley Wood

Areley Kings

Astley Cross River Severn

Dunley Road/A451

Red House Road

Dunley

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Methodology 1.7 This report has been undertaken in accordance with the following guidance:

- An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment, Natural , 2014; and

- Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment(GLVIA), Third Edition, Landscape Institute and IEMA, 2013.

1.8 This is a standalone report and does not constitute a landscape chapter in the context of an Environmental Statement (ES) required by an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

1.9 Table 3.1 of the GLVIA3 outlines what is required in this type of appraisal report, as a project outside of an EIA. This includes the following:

- Establish the existing nature of the landscape and visual environment in the study area;

- Provides a description of the proposed development, identifying the main features of the proposals and the changes that will occur; and

- Systematically identifies and describes the effects that are likely to occur, including whether they are adverse or beneficial.

1.10 The approach taken in the preparation of this report is considered to be appropriate and proportional in the context of the professional guidance published by the Landscape Institute.

1.11 Professional judgement plays an important role in the landscape and visual analysis process where the analysis of landscape character and visual amenity is both a subjective and objective process. However, the analysis process seeks to provide a narrative to explain the judgement reached.

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National Planning Policy At paragraph 007 Reference ID: 26-007-20140306, it states: Are sympathetic to local character and history, including the “planning should promote local character (including landscape surrounding built environment and landscape setting, while not National Planning Policy Framework 2019 (NPPF) setting). Development should seek to promote character in preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation or change 2.1 At the heart of the NPPF is a presumption in favour of townscape and landscape by responding to and reinforcing (such as increased densities); sustainable development. For plan making the presumption locally distinctive patterns of developments, local man-made and requires plans to positively seek opportunities to meet the natural heritage and culture, while not preventing or discouraging Establish or maintain a strong sense of place, using the development needs of an area and be sufficiently flexible to appropriate innovation”. arrangement of streets, spaces, building types and materials to adapt to rapid change. Footnote 6 identifies protected areas or create attractive, welcoming and distinctive places to live, work assets of particular importance including: and visit; 2.8 The use of high quality hard and soft landscape design to help successfully integrate development into the wider environment is • Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); Optimise the potential of the site to accommodate and sustain also emphasised as being important to consider from the outset, • Green Belt; an appropriate amount and mix of development (including green in order to ensure that proposals improve the overall quality of and other public space) and support local facilities and transport the townscape and landscape. • Local Green Space; networks; and Green Infrastructure • Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); Create places that are safe, inclusive and accessible and which promote health and well-being, with a high standard of amenity for 2.9 The NPPG highlights the multifaceted benefits provided through • National Parks; existing and future users” the provision of Green Infrastructure, including but not limited to: “enhanced wellbeing, outdoor recreation and access, • Irreplaceable Habitats; 2.5 Paragraph 170 requires planning policies and decisions to enhanced biodiversity and landscapes, urban cooling, and the contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by management of flood risk” (Paragraph: 005 Reference ID: 8-005- • Heritage Coasts; fulfilling criteria including amongst others: 20190721). “protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, sites of biodiversity • Designated Heritage Assets; and or geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with 2.10 Moreover, the NPPG recognises how green infrastructure their statutory status or identified quality in the development plan); exists within a wider landscape context and can thus be used to • Areas at Risk of Flooding or Coastal Erosion. reinforce and enhance local landscape character and contribute to a sense of place. 2.2 Paragraph 12 of the NPPF clarifies that the presumption in recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, favour of sustainable development does not change the status of and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem the development plan as the starting point for decision making. services – including the economic and other benefits of the best Landscape and most versatile agricultural land, and of trees and woodland.” Furthermore, it confirms that where a planning application 2.11 The NPPG makes reference to the National Planning Policy conflicts with an up-to-date development plan (including any Framework, stating: “it is clear that plans should recognise National Planning Practice Guidance neighbourhood plans that form part of the development plan), the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, and that permission should not usually be granted. Local planning 2.6 The NPPG considers that the creation of new residential strategic policies should provide for the conservation and authorities may take decisions that depart from an up-to-date neighbourhoods can, through sensitive design, be deemed enhancement of landscapes” (Paragraph: 036 Reference ID: development plan, but only if material considerations in a acceptable even where it results in a loss of open countryside. 8-036-20190721). particular case indicate that the plan should not be followed. Those categories within the NPPG that are of particular relevance to landscape and visual matters in relation to this site 2.12 It is therefore emphasised that the cumulative impacts 2.3 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental are set out below. of development on the landscape need to be considered to what the planning and development process should achieve, carefully, whereby proposals should “avoid adverse impacts on as stated at paragraph 124. landscapes and set out necessary mitigation measures, such Design as appropriate design principles and visual screening, where 2.4 Paragraph 127 seeks to ensure that developments: 2.7 The NPPG emphasises the need for development to be necessary” (Paragraph: 036 Reference ID: 8-036-20190721). “Will function well and add to the overall quality of the area, just integrated with its surrounding context, reinforces local not for the short term but over the lifetime of the development; distinctiveness, reduces impacts on nature and sense of place, and considers views into and out of sites. This includes the use Are visually attractive as a result of good architecture, layout and of local building forms and ensuring that development reflects appropriate and effective landscaping; the layout, scale, pattern and materials within new development.

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Plan 3: Landscape Planning Policy (2469/P11) Local Planning Policy Context Site Boundary

Site Boundary 2.13 The Malvernrelevant Hills local planning policy for the site is as follows: District Council Malvern Hills Listed Buildings District Council Adopted Core Strategy (Adopted December 2010) Listed Buildings Wyre Forest District Local Plan (Pre-Submission 2.14Publication The Core October Strategy 2018) sets out the broad strategy and vision for Wyre Forest District Local Plan (Pre-Submission developmentNew Housing within Allocations the District and forms part of the Local Publication October 2018) Development Framework. New Housing Allocations Policy CP12: Landscape Character 2.15 "New development must protect and where possible enhance the unique character of the landscape including the individual settlement or hamlet within which it is located. Opportunities for landscape gain will be sought alongside all new development, such that landscape character is strengthened and enhanced".

Policy CP13: Providing a Green Infrastructure Network 2.16 The policy outlines the need for Green infrastructure to be AKR/1 carefully planned into all new developments from the outset:

- “The existing green infrastructure network within the District, as set out within the emerging Green Infrastructure Strategy, will be safeguarded.’

- ‘New development will be required to contribute positively towards the District’s green infrastructure network.’

Wyre Forest District Site Allocations and Policies Local Plan 2006-2026 (July 2013) 2.17 This document sits alongside the Core Strategy in the Local Development Framework and sets out areas of land to deliver major development such as housing, in order to fulfil the requirements described in the Core Strategy.

Policy SAL.UP9: Landscaping and Boundary Treatment 2.18 This policy states that new Landscape Schemes must consider, amongst other things, ‘the Landscape Character Assessment and protect any existing trees and distinctive landscape features where possible. "Boundary treatments should also ‘reflect the local character and appearance of the area and protect existing trees or distinct landscape features".

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Wyre Forest District Council Green Infrastructure Strategy the watercourse and this should be further buffered from designed to: (October 2012) development to maintain the views out into the wider rural landscape • ‘Reflect the local character and appearance of the area and 2.19 This document provides a strategic vision for the district’s green protect existing tree or distinct landscape features; and infrastructure. Within the vision, it states that ‘Stourport-on- • No additional discharge must be made from the development Severn will be enhanced to provide strong linkages between as there are issues of surface water flooding on the estate • Include vegetation wherever possible open spaces along the riverside and around the canal basins.’ opposite. This should be dealt with on site by SuDS and The document also sets out strategic objectives for the delivery integrated into the wider green infrastructure provision • Ensure a clear definition between public and private spaces". of green infrastructure provision. Those of relevance to the site are as follows: • New development should front onto Pearl Lane to help merge Design Guidance (June 2015) the new development with the existing urban edge" - Seek to retain mature trees where appropriate 2.27 The aim of this Supplementary Planning Document is to provide 2.22 A number of new policies are included within the Pre-Submission detailed advice on Wyre Forest District Council’s expectations - Provide appropriate pedestrian and cycle access to the existing version of the Local Plan Review, with the following of relevance for the delivery of high quality development. The SPD sets out green infrastructure network in order to encourage active to Landscape and Visual purposes: how the District Council’s design policies should be interpreted. recreation and travel • Policy 6B – Locating New Development 2.28 Namely, with regard to Landscape the SPD sets out the following - Provide opportunities for wildlife and biodiversity incorporating principles which should inform any Residential Development: appropriate soft landscaping and features which act as green • Policy 11A – Quality Design and Local Distinctiveness stepping stones - "Appeal to a wide range of users • Policy 11C – Landscape Character - Relate to the surrounding character of the area Wyre Forest District Council Local Plan Review 2016-2034 • Policy 27A – Quality Design and Distinctiveness (Pre-Submission Publication October 2018) - Link into a wider network of green spaces 2.20 Importantly, the upcoming Local Plan has allocated the site for • Policy 27C – Landscape and Boundary Treatment residential development as it provides an 'opportunity to deliver - Form a focal point for residents a high quality residential development with significant areas of 2.23 To summarise the main points of the above policies, they landscaping'. describe how ‘High quality design’ and ‘Creating and reinforcing - Be safe, attractive and easily accessible for all physical abilities local distinctiveness’ is a requirement for new development, 2.21 In accordance with Policy 33.5 Pearl Lane AKR/14, as well as meeting the requirements within the local character - Not be designed as an addition but integrated into the design development will be expected to do the following: assessments. from the beginning

• "Access to be taken from Pearl Lane 2.24 In relation to Landscape Character, it mentions that ‘New - Integrate Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems to include development must protect and where possible enhance the landscape features such as ponds and swales to enrich the • Additional boundary tree planting will be required along unique character of the landscape including the individual landscape and enhance biodiversity and ecology through northern, western and southern boundaries in particular to settlement or hamlet within which it is located. Opportunities for wetland habitats reduce the impact on the rural landscape and screen the landscape gain will be sought alongside all new development, in - Survey and retain existing landscape features of value development from the A451 and Redhouse Lane order that landscape character is strengthened and enhanced.’ including trees, hedges, woodland, ditches, ponds, grassland • Development should be sympathetic to the setting of the 2.25 It states how landscape schemes must demonstrate that they: and verges. Retaining these features helps to enhance new historic buildings in Dunley, especially Dunley Hall development in a cost effective way, creating a sense of place • ‘Predominantly use local native species; • There is an opportunity to design an area of open space in - Use Communal Gardens at existing water features and canals the northern part of the site to buffer the setting of Dunley and • Take into consideration the Landscape Character Assessment, as part of the design, enhancing them to encourage leisure use potentially conserve significant archaeology in situ protecting existing trees and landscape features where and improve access possible; and • A 10m buffer will be required alongside the Blackstone to - Car parks should not be central to a design. Pocket parks can Astley Aqueduct which runs north to south through the site • Provide imaginative, durable and porous hard landscaping be fitted into the smallest spaces, breaking up car parking solutions which add to a sense of place and local schemes and other vast expanses of hard surfaces." • The potential to open up the spring fed culverted watercourse distinctiveness…’ which runs west to east to provide biodiversity benefit should be investigated. A public footpath also runs alongside 2.26 It goes on to mention how boundary treatments must be

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Policy Requirements for the Development:

• The upcoming Local Plan has allocated the site for residential development.

• Development will be required to protect and enhance the unique character of the landscape and any of its distinctive features; taking into consideration the County Council Landscape Character Assessment (2011) (Policy CP12, SAL.UP9, 11C and 11A);

• Proposals should contribute positively towards the districts Green Infrastructure Network (Policy CP13, 27C, and in line with the Wyre Forest District Council Green Infrastructure Strategy);

• Furthermore, boundary treatments should be cohesive with the local character and appearance of the area (Policy SAL. UP9, 27C and 11A);

• The upcoming Local Plan (Pre-submission October 2018) offers a robust set of Landscape and Visual interventions for proposals of the site to adhere to (refer to Paragraph 2.20) (Policy 33.5)

• Adhere to the principles put forward in the Design Guidance SPD.

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Plan 4: Landscape Character (2469/P12) Landscape Character and Visual Baseline Site Boundary 3.1 The Landscape and visual baseline describes the site specific Site Boundary landscape character and sets this within the context of the published Worcestershire County Council Landscape Char- Worcestershire County Council Landscape Char- acter Assessment (August 2012) acter Assessment (August 2012) landscape character assessments and the landscape planning context. This forms the baseline against which the proposals and Sandstone Estatelands Sandstone Estatelands

their potential impacts, in both landscape and visual terms are Riverside Meadows considered. Riverside Meadows Urban Landscape Character Urban Timbered Plateau Farmlands 3.2 The characterisation process is a non-value judgement process; Timbered Plateau Farmlands therefore, classifying landscapes into distinct areas does not Principal Wooded Hills suggest that one character area is more sensitive than another or Principal Wooded Hills valued by people more or less. Wooded Estatelands Wooded Estatelands 3.3 The landscape character appraisal process reviews the wider Principal Timbered Farmlands

landscape character type at a national level,explores more detailed Unenclosed Commons Principal Timbered Farmlands character features at a district/local level and analyses site-specific land use that informs local distinctiveness and sense of place. Unenclosed Commons 3.4 This landscape and visual appraisal considers the local, site specific character features and context as identified by Tyler Grange Group Ltd through fieldwork, and informed by a review of published assessments. From this baseline information the relevant site features can be retained in order to identify detracting features that need to be addressed within the proposals.

Regional Character

Sandstone Estatelands 3.5 At a regional level, the site is covered by the Regional Landscape Character Area: Kinver Sandlands, as described within the Worcestershire County Council Landscape Character Assessment Project Land West of Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn 2011. The Character Area encompasses many landscape character types but of relevance to the site is the Sandstone Estatelands (see Drawing Title Landscape Character Plan

Plan 4: Landscape Character). Scale Not to Scale Drawing No. 2469/P10 3.6 The key characteristics of the Sandstone Estatelands which are Date 07/04/2019 Checked EF/RP relevant to the site include the following: Project Land West of Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn

• Arable land use; Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT Drawing Title T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk Landscape Character Plan

• Hedgerow boundaries to fields; Scale Not to Scale Drawing No. 2469/P10 • Planned enclosure pattern – straight roads and field boundaries; Date 07/04/2019 Checked EF/RP • Woodland pattern of discrete blocks;

Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT • Planned woodland character – estate plantations and groups of T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk trees;

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• Large-scale landscape with wide views over open farmland; • Localised high impact of urban development at edge and creates a sense of separation with the site and Astley.” • Dispersed pattern of isolated farmsteads and scattered 3.15 The linear arrangement of existing housing on the rising land wayside dwellings; creates a developed skyline, when seen from the Public Rights Site Specific Character of Way within the site. The Roundhouse, a 19th Century windmill • Discrete settlement clusters often in the form of small estate 3.10 The site shares some of the characteristics of the Sandstone that has been converted into a residential dwelling is located villages; and Estatelands, most notably its arable land use and undulating within Areley Kings on the higher ground less than a kilometre topography as well as the hedgerows forming the site to the east of the site and forms a local landmark in these views. • Rolling topography with occasional low escarpment. boundaries. However, the site’s location adjacent to the Whilst forming a local feature on the skyline of Areley Kings, residential development of Areley Kings and Astley Cross, the roundhouse and views towards it are not identified within 3.7 The associated landscape guidelines for the ongoing together with the influence of the nearby A451 that runs along published landscape assessments, guidance documents or the management of this Landscape Character Type include: the northern boundary, gives the site a more transitional peri- Areley Kings Conservation Area Character appraisal as being of urban character. particular importance or significance. • Conserve and restore the distinctive hedgerow pattern with priority given to primary hedgerows; 3.11 The bowl-like topography is a distinctive feature of the local 3.16 Although separated from the built edge, the existing landscape and the site area. The landform creates a sense development on the rolling land to the east places the site within • Identify opportunities for further large scale planting of of openness in the northern portion of the site on the plateau the built edge context, contained within the rolling topography woodlands and tree belts to strengthen the regular patterns of area. The landform slopes up and around to the north and west and woodland of the local landscape. the landscape; from the south east area of the site, which adds to the sense of 3.17 When approaching Stourport-on-Severn from the south on the • Conserve and restore parklands; enclosure in the south provided by the existing vegetation along the site boundary (Image 1). B4194, the built edge to the southeast forms a distinct edge with • Conserve the integrity of estate villages; the open fieldscape and creates a gateway to the settlement. 3.12 Within the site boundary, the medium to large scale fields have When approaching from the west on the A451, tree belts along • Promote the creation and appropriate management of natural an open appearance due to only a small number of mature oak the site boundary screen views towards the built edge, with the vegetation communities along highways and other non-farmed trees being located along field boundaries (see Image 2). There entrance to the town perceived at the junction with Pearl Lane to areas; and is also a single free standing oak within the medium scale field the northeast of the site. in the south east. The site is bordered by semi-mature trees • Promote the development of wide field margins for wildlife approximately 8-12 metres in height which provide a sense of 3.18 The illustrated images overleaf depict some of the key benefit. enclosure for the lower, southern area of the site (Image 4). characteristics outlined above.

3.13 The large areas of mature woodland and farmsteads scattered Areley Kings Sandstone Estatelands amongst arable land to the north and west of the site, including 3.8 The Landscape Character Assessment for Worcestershire the block of woodland on the hillside to the southwest are also defines areas at a more local scale in terms of Landscape prevalent within the surrounding landscape character. This, Description Units or Land Cover Parcels. The site is situated together with the large amount of tree planting throughout the within the Landscape Description Unit: Areley Kings Sandstone neighbouring development, places the site within a well-wooded Estatelands which is described as: context.

‘An area of ...rolling lowland topography. The land use is arable with 3.14 To the east, the site is edged by predominantly two storey a tree cover comprising thinly scattered hedgerow and streamside residential development along Pearl Lane with buildings trees, together with tree groups associated with settlement. orientated with both gable ends and rear elevations facing the Farmsteads and strings of wayside dwellings characterise the site along Pearl Lane (as illustrated in Image 5). Some single settlement pattern, associated with a moderate to high level of storey properties are located on the edge of the settlement such dispersal and a small to medium scale field pattern.’ as those around the Pearl Lane junction onto the A451 in the 3.9 The condition of the landscape, as of 2008, was reported as: north. Development is arranged in a regular grid pattern and is stepped to follow the natural landform of the area. The back • “High intensity cropping with a fragmented field pattern gardens of the properties adjoining Pearl Lane are set back from the road by a grassed verge, which is supplemented in places by • Poor condition boundaries tree planting. This provides the existing development with a soft

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Worcestershire County Council Landscape Char- acter Assessment (August 2012)

Sandstone Estatelands

Riverside Meadows

Urban

Timbered Plateau Farmlands

Principal Wooded Hills

Wooded Estatelands

Principal Timbered Farmlands

Unenclosed Commons

Image 2: A line of mature Oak trees run along a field boundary to the Image 1: The site has an undulating topography whereby it rises from south east to north west, creating a sense of enclosure to the south. south.

Project Land West of Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn

Image 3: To the west the site is edged by a lineal arable field. A substantial Drawing Title Landscape Character Plan belt of tree planting borders this field, serving as a robust physical and Image 4: The site is contained to the south by semi-mature tree planting. Scale Not to Scale visual barrier. Drawing No. 2469/P10 Date 07/04/2019 Checked EF/RP

Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk

Image 6: The site is bounded to the east by tree and hedge planting Image 5: The sites location adjacent to Astley Cross' settlement edge places it within a urban fringe context. adjacent to Pearl Lane.

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Landscape Character Conclusion • Overall the site is largely characteristic of the Sandstone Estatelands with its arable land use, undulating topography and hedgerows forming the sites boundaries. However, the site is also strongly influenced by its relationship with Areley Kings and Astley Cross' settlement edge which serves to set the site within an urban fringe context.

Key characteristics to retain: • The site is contained by robust belts of tree planting which provide both physical and visual enclosure;

• The site contains a small number of free standing oak trees which serve as distinguishable landscape features;

• The site has a rolling topography which is typical of the character area, and allows for views towards the wooded skyline to the south; and

• A PRoW runs through the site from east to west, however is presently inaccessible due to overgrown and unmaintained rapeseed crop.

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Visual Context and Visual Receptors Plan 5: Topography (2469/P13) 3.19 In order to establish the degree of any change that may arise from future development on site and the extent to which such changes will affect identified local receptors, it is important to understand Site Boundary the existing situation in terms of visual amenity alongside the availability and context of views associated with the local area. Height AOD (m) Chapter 6 of the GLVIA3 sets out how the visual baseline is 278m and above established. The baseline should establish the area in which the proposed development may be visible, those people who may experience views of the development, the key viewpoints 212m representative of affected views and the nature of the views at the viewpoints. 146m

3.20 The visibility of the site considers representative views towards it from the surrounding area. This is based on the findings of 79.5m topographical mapping (Plan 5: Topography) and Geographic Information System (GIS) first sieve analysis mapping (Plan 6: 13.3m and below Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) and has been refined and Source: The plan has been modelled using GIS verified through field assessment. computer software (QGIS) and Ordnance Survey Terrain 5 data. 3.21 The software generated image illustrates the extent to which development of up to 8m high on the site would be potentially visible within a 5km radius to a 1.6m high receptor. The calculation is based on Ordnance Survey Terrain 5 data only, and does not take into account built form or vegetation present within the landscape. The Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence (ZTV) generated for the proposed development on the site development clearly identifies the influence of the topography in limiting views.

3.22 Given the local landform and the dense woodland vegetation in the areas surrounding the site, the ZTV indicates a considerably greater area than in reality. The influence of built form and vegetation, including the dense vegetated site boundaries serve to limit inter-visibility.

3.23 This first sieve exercise has been verified in the field to take into account any significant vegetation or built form which further restricts or limits the extent of visibility. Following the completion of a visit to the site, a number of representative viewpoints have been included that illustrate the approximate extent of areas from which the site is visible. These are illustrated further below. In accordance with GLVIA3, the visual analysis is based on views from external spaces within the public domain excluding barely discernible views and not from inside buildings or private spaces. However, where notable views from private properties are possible, these have been considered where relevant.

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3.24 Photographs were taken from selected viewpoints with a Plan 6: GIS Zone of Theoretical Visibility (2469/P14) digital camera with an equivalent 50mm focal length lens at eye level (approximately 1600mm above ground). A total of 10 representative viewpoints have been chosen from locations Site Boundary surrounding the site to enable the effects of the development to be assessed from all directions (see Photoviewpoints 1-10). Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)

3.25 The photographs were taken in May and June 2019 when Potential Visibility the trees and hedgerows were coming into leaf, however consideration has been made to visibility during the winter Source: months. The Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) illustrates the extent to which the development at an 8m ridge height is potentially visible within a 5km radius (1.6m 3.26 Whilst the views are chosen to be representative of the area, high receptor). The ZTV has been modelled using GIS they cannot provide continuous coverage of all potential locations computer software (Global Mapper) and Ordnance within the vicinity of the development. Often, views will occur as Survey Terrain 5 data, and as such does not take into account built form or vegetation present within the a sequence within the surrounding environment, with the most landscape. Field verification is required to refine the significant views assessed further within this report. accuracy of the ZTV.

3.27 Likewise, where transient or fleeting views are possible, these will also be assessed as part of the report.

Extent of Views 3.28 The Zone of Theoretical Visibility suggests that the site will be visible as far north as Stourport, approximately 2km away. However in reality views of the site from this location, and in Stourport in general, are obstructed by Stourport's built form.

3.29 To the east, the ZTV suggests the site is visible from Waresley yet in reality the visibility of the site is considerably more localised due to the existing built edge of Areley Kings and Astley Cross.

3.30 Visibility of the site from the south is theoretically limited to as far as Astley. Views further south are obstructed by intervening topography.

3.31 To the west, the ZTV suggests the site is visible as far as footpaths 152C, 509C and 510C.

3.32 The actual extent of visibility of the site is described below, with reference to the representative Photoviewpoints from within the public realm. The location of these are illustrated on Plan 8: Public Rights of Way and Photoviewpoint Location Plan. The views from each of these locations are also included within this section of the report.

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3.33 Although the site sits within a well wooded context, the northern Plan 7: Public Rights of Way and Photoviewpoint Location Plan (2469/P15) area of the site is largely open to distant views from hillsides in the south, due to its situation on elevated land and the lack of on-site structural vegetation. At a more local scale, views in and Site Boundary out of the site are limited to gaps in the semi-mature vegetation along the boundary line as a result of the site’s location next to Footpaths the well-treed, built form of Stourport-on-Severn. Photoviewpoints 3.34 The approximate extent of the visual envelope is described below:

• To the north – Large blocks of woodland planting restrict 6 expansive views in to the site from the north. There are however, some open fields along the public rights of way around Areley Wood which allow for a small number of glimpsed views of the site;

• To the east – The existing built form limits clear views towards 10 the site from the east. Although glimpsed views across the site are obtained from gaps between properties adjoining Pearl Lane, the vegetation along the site boundary screens the 8 majority of views from the road; 7 3 • To the south – Views of the site from the south are largely 1 determined by the surrounding topography and large scale 2 woodland planting. Locally, glimpsed views of the site are limited to gaps in the boundary vegetation. Distant views onto 4 the site can be achieved from the area of higher ground around Ombersely Golf Club, approximately 3.5km to the south east (Representitive Photoviewpoint 5); 9

• To the west – The topography and woodland planting around Dunley screen the majority of views of the site from the west. Glimpsed views can however be obtained along the A451 as the land slopes away from Dunley Hall.

5

Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn Landscape and Visual Appraisal 14 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 3 Landscape and Visual Baseline

Visual Receptors Plan 8: Visual Receptors (2469/P16) 3.35 The approximate extent of visibility for a range of Visual Receptors is illustrated on Plan 8: Visual Receptors. These receptors represent individuals or groups of people with views Site Boundary towards the site and whose visual amenity may be affected by the proposed development. The Visual Receptors identified Residential Receptors are summarised as follows. The photoviewpoint locations are illustrated on Plan 7. Recreational Receptors

Transient Receptors (Road Users) Transient Receptors • Users of Pearl Lane (Representative Photoviewpoint 1 and 3) 2KM • Users of the A451/Dunley Road (Representative Photoviewpoint 8 and 10)

Residential Receptors 1KM • Residents of the properties on: Cheviot Close, Cleeve Close, Sevenhills Drive, Abberley Avenue, Longmynd Way, Cotswold Avenue; which back onto / overlook Pearl Lane (Representitive Photoviewpoint 3)

Recreational Receptors • Recreational users of public footpath 522 which traverses the site (presently un-traversable)

• Recreational users of public footpath 530 which traverses the site (presently un-traversable)

• Recreational users of public footpath 539 (Representitive Photoviewpoint 4)

• Recreational users of Pearl Lane (Representitive Photoviewpoint 3)

• Recreational users of the A451/Dunley Road (Representitive Photoviewpoint 8 and 10)

3.36 Views from each of the 10 Representative Photoviewpoint locations identified above and shown on Plan 7 are illustrated on the following pages, along with descriptions of the nature of views and annotations identifying key features.

3.37 Views from along public footpaths 522 and 530 have been discounted from this report, as at the time of two separate visits the footpaths were inaccessible due to overgrown rapeseed crop.

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Photoviewpoint 1: 4.1 This photoviewpoint illustrates the sites visual containment from the south east along Pearl Lane and Red House Road. Highly robust boundary planting along the sites eastern boundary and around New Barns Farm restricts views onto the site.

4.2 During the winter months, there may be greater visibility afforded onto the site through gaps in the vegetation when the leaves have wilted.

Landscape Character • Gardens of properties along Pearl Lane mark the built edge

• Robust planting following lineage of road

Receptors 4.3 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are pedestrians and road users of Red House Road.

Approximate Site Extents

Photoviewpoint 1: View taken from Pearl Lane, looking north. Orientation: North

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Photoviewpoint 2: 4.4 Views of the site from Red House Road are fragmented by the sites southern boundary and vegetation associated with New Barns Farm.

4.5 During the winter months, there may be greater visibility afforded onto the site through gaps in the vegetation when the leaves have wilted.

Landscape Character • Urban influence of properties associated with New Barn Farm

• Robust planting following lineage of road

Receptors 4.6 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are pedestrians and road users of Red House Road.

Approximate Site Extents

Photoviewpoint 2: View taken from Red House Lane looking north towards the site Orientation: North

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Photoviewpoint 3: 4.7 Views onto the site from along Pearl Lane to the east are heavily filtered by the sites boundary planting.

4.8 During the winter months, there may be greater visibility afforded onto the site through gaps in the vegetation when the leaves have wilted.

Landscape Character • Robust planting following lineage of road

Receptors 4.9 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are pedestrians and road users of Pearl Lane.

Approximate Site Extents

Photoviewpoint 3: View taken from Peal Lane looking at the sites eastern boundary. Orientation: North West

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Photoviewpoint 4: 4.10 There are glimpsed views afforded onto the higher ground of the site through gaps in the tree cover to the south. Even though Areley Wood and the hills to the north form a wooded setting skyline, New Barns Farm and the properties of Areley Kings and Astley Cross place views the site within an urban fringe context.

Landscape Character • Arable land use

• Hedgerow boundaries to fields

• The site sits below Areley Wood and the hills to the north

Receptors 4.11 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 539

Approximate Site Extents

Astley Cross

Site Location

Photoviewpoint 4: View taken from the public footpath near to Sytch Cottages, looking north. Orientation: North

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Photoviewpoint 5: 4.12 Views of the site are contained within the rolling hills and well- treed context of the wider landscape. Where the site is visible in the backdrop, views are framed against Astley Cross' existing development edge.

4.13 Changes to the composition of the views associated with the residential edge of Astley Cros would be negligible

Landscape Character • Arable land use

• Large-scale landscape with wide views over open farmland

• Rolling topography

Receptors 4.14 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 519.

Site Location

Photoviewpoint 5: View taken from the public footpath just outside the grounds of Ombersley Golf Club, looking north west. Orientation: North West

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Photoviewpoint 6: 4.15 This photoviewpoint further demonstrates the sites visual containment to views from the north due to the robust boundary planting along the sites northern border adjacent to the A451/ Dunley Road which contributes to the wooded skyline.

Landscape Character • Arable land use

• Hedgerow boundaries to fields

• Rolling topography

Receptors 4.16 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 523.

Approximate Site Extents

Photoviewpoint 6: View taken from the public footpath on Broomy Hill looking south. Orientation: South

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Photoviewpoint 7: 4.17 Middle-Long distance views of the site from the west are obstructed by the wooded foreground and undulating landform. The properties at Astley Cross can be seen to rise out of Burnsthorne Farm in the foreground.

Landscape Character • Arable land use

• Rolling topography

• Farmsteads and wayside dwellings

• Woodland copses

Receptors 4.18 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 512.

Burnsthorne Farm

Areley Kings

Photoviewpoint 7: View taken from the public footpath on the footslopes of Hurtle Hill, looking east. Distance from site: East

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Photoviewpoint 8: 4.19 There are glimpsed views afforded onto the higher ground of the site above the hedgerow which runs parallel to A451. These views however are framed against the properties of Astley Cross which places the site within an peri-urban context.

4.20 During the winter months, there may be greater visibilty afforded onto the site through gaps in the vegetation when the leaves have wilted.

Landscape Character • Vegetation boundary planting

• Road infrastructure has an urban influence

• Urban fringe setting

Receptors 4.21 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of the A451/Dunley Road and transient users who are travelling at speed.

Photoviewpoint 8: View taken from the A451 looking east towards the site Orientation: East

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Photoviewpoint 9: 4.22 View taken from public footpath 544C looking north. Glimpsed views of the site are afforded in the backdrop, whereby it is contained by and framed against Areley Wood.

Landscape Character • Arable land use

• Rolling topography

• Hedgerow field boundaries

Receptors 4.23 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 544C.

Site Location

Photoviewpoint 9: View taken from public footpath 544C looking towards the site in the north. Orientation: North

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Photoviewpoint 10: 4.24 This viewpoint illustrates the sites limited visibility from the north due to its highly robust boundary planting which serves to fragment views. Views are confined to between gaps in the planting.

4.25 During the winter months, there may be greater visibility afforded onto the site through gaps in the vegetation when the leaves have wilted.

Landscape Character • Vegetation boundary planting

• Road infrastructure has an urban influence

Receptors 4.26 Receptors who will experience this viewpoint are recreational users of public footpath 544C.

A451

Photoviewpoint 10: View taken from the A451 looking towards the sites northern boundary Orientation: South

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Visual Conclusions Composition of Views 4.27 In elevated views from the north, the site sits within the wooded Conclusions on Views/Visibility foreground well below the skyline. Views into the site are limited • Views of the site are largely localised due to a combination of its to small areas, which are framed by the boundary vegetation. robust boundary planting, vegetation and woodland cover in the However, in views from the lower-lying land and along surrounding landscape, and the rolling topography of the wider Road, the distinctive tree belt forming the site boundary forms the area. skyline and screens views into the site. • As listed in this section of the report, the primary receptors which 4.28 From the south, views of the site are limited to neighbouring would experience the greatest change in the views experienced fields and areas of higher land further afield in the south east due would be users of the sites internal footpaths and residents, to large blocks of woodland planting and scattered development recreational and transient users situated on and around Pearl around Astley. Lane. 4.29 In the elevated views from the south east, the site is situated • Where there are external views afforded onto the site, they are alongside the extents of development, which includes the either heavily filtered by its robust boundary planting or limited to settlement at Areley Kings and sits below the wooded hills of the northern half where the topography is higher. Furthermore, Areley Wood. More locally, glimpsed views of the higher areas many of the views which are afforded onto the site are framed on site can be obtained beyond the boundary vegetation, while against Areley Kings and Astley Cross' exisiting settlement edge. the roof tops of Astley Cross adjacent to site together with the wooded hills beyond site to the north form the local skyline. Visual Design Principles 4.30 As can be seen from Photoviewpoint 8 and 10, views into • Retain and enhance the sites northern, southern and site from the A451 are largely filtered by the semi-mature tree western boundary vegetation to maintain the sites belt and maintained hedgerow forming the site boundary. The visual enclosure. Any potential views of the proposed vegetation both sides of the road, also frame views towards the developments roofline would also consequently be softened. distant skyline. • Fronting development onto Pearl Lane to the east to visually 4.31 Further planting around the property at New Barns Farm integrate site with adjacent development edge of Astley combines with the planting along the site boundary to provide Cross. a dense vegetative screen to views from the adjacent junction. The boundary vegetation creates a vertical emphasis to views from Pearl Lane and is gappy in places, as can be seen from Photoviewpoint 1. This allows glimpsed views across the area up to the woodland next to Dunley.

Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn Landscape and Visual Appraisal 26 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 5 Development Proposals

Site Boundary Landscape Opportunities and Constraints Plan 9: Opportunities and Constraints Plan (2469/P15) Frontage considerations 5.1 In response to the landscape and visual baseline analysis, Open space to be retained in the northern area incorporating a series of landscape objectives, and opportunities and Potential Public Open Space vistas to the wooded skyline to constraints have been identified (see Plan 9: Opportunities and the south and Clent Hills to the Existing vegetation retained and Constraints Plan) to ensure that the development response north east. enhanced reflects the local circumstance and addresses opportunities for landscape enhancement. Existing views to be retained . - Access and new development to front onto Pearl Lane to reduce New development to front Existing Public Rights of Way the physical and visual separation of the site from the existing onto Pearl Lane to reduce

built edge, providing a softer settlement edge to integrate the the physical and visual 5m Contours scheme into the adjacent existing settlement edge; separation of the site from

the existing built edge (as per Retained existing feature trees - Building heights to be limited to an appropriate height in the Policy 33.5). southern area to retain views out from the open space on the . sloping landform; Opportunities to retain and - Internal highways to be planted with irregular tree planting and enhance existing vegetation interspersed between housing to reflect the character of existing boundaries with additional development in Areley Kings, providing additional green, and to boundary planting to screen development. soften developments built form and internal layout;

- Development to be set back from the public footpath and Building heights to be limited surrounding area with opportunities for further planting; to an appropriate height in the southern area to retain - Existing trees and hedgerows to be enhanced to conserve the views out from the open

existing field pattern; Development proposals to space on the sloping land- integrate with the existing form. - Woodland planting to be introduced in the northern area to PRoW alongside the reflect the wooded character prevalent in the surrounding characteristic Oak Trees which sit adjacent. There context. Existing planting found along the northern boundary Site Boundary are also opportunities for should be retained to maintain the sense of enclosure and further planting. containment from Pearl Lane; Frontage considerations . . Open space to be retained in - Open space to be retained in the northern area, incorporating the northern area incorporating Potential Public Open Space vistas tovistas the towooded the wooded skyline skyline to the to south and Clent Hills to the norththe east. south Open and Clent space Hills to toincorporate the the existing internal Existing vegetation retained and plantingnorth with east. opportunities for SuDS and publicly accessible enhanced Internal highways to be planted Project Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn open space; with irregular tree planting and Site Boundary Existing views to be retained interspersed between housing . Drawing Title Landscape Opportunities and 5.2 Importantly, these recommendations have been informed by the to reflect the character of Constraints Frontage considerations Existing Public Rights of Way relevant policies and SPDs of the Wyre Forest district local plan, New development to front existing development. Scale Not to Scale Open space to be retained in and adhere to the Pearl Lane AKR/1 allocation guidelines. onto Pearl Lane to reduce Drawing No. 2469/P017 the northern area incorporating the physical and visualPotential Public Open Space 5m Contours Date November 2019 vistas to the wooded 5.3 skyline The to broad themes that have emerged through the Opportunities separation of the site from Checked EF/RH the south and Clent Hills to the Existing vegetation retained and and Constraints Plan have been utilised to inform a Landscape the existing built edge (as per Retained existing feature trees enhanced north east. Strategy (Plan 10) for the site to accompany the development Policy 33.5). . Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk proposals. The proposals will comprise of 331 homes with Existing views to be retained associated landscaping including 6.06ha of Public Open Space. . Opportunities to retain and enhance existing vegetation New development to front Existing Public Rights of Way boundaries with additional onto Pearl Lane to reduce Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn boundary planting to screen the physical and visual 27 Landscape and Visual Appraisal 5m Contours 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 development. separation of the site from

the existing built edge (as per Retained existing feature trees Policy 33.5). Building heights to be limited . to an appropriate height in the southern area to retain Opportunities to retain and views out from the open enhance existing vegetation Development proposals to space on the sloping land- boundaries with additional integrate with the existing form. boundary planting to screen PRoW alongside the development. characteristic Oak Trees which sit adjacent. There are also opportunities for Building heights to be limited further planting. to an appropriate height in . the southern area to retain . views out from the open Development proposals to space on the sloping land- integrate with the existing form. PRoW alongside the characteristic Oak Trees Internal highways to be planted Project Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn which sit adjacent. There with irregular tree planting and are also opportunities for interspersed between housing Drawing Title Landscape Opportunities and further planting. to reflect the character of Constraints . . existing development. Scale Not to Scale Drawing No. 2469/P017 Date November 2019 Checked EF/RH

Internal highways to be planted Project Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT with irregular tree planting and T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk interspersed between housing Drawing Title Landscape Opportunities and to reflect the character of Constraints existing development. Scale Not to Scale Drawing No. 2469/P017 Date November 2019 Checked EF/RH

Unit 430 Scott House, The Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4DT T: 0121 773 0770 E: [email protected] W: www.tylergrange.co.uk 5 Development Proposals

Plan 10: Landscape Strategy (2469/P17)

Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn Landscape and Visual Appraisal 28 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 6 Implications of Development

Landscape Effects footpath which passes through the site is to be retained and Visual Receptor Analysis enhanced whilst the implementation of cycle routes along the footpath and throughout the site will increase the recreational Transient users of Pearl Lane and residents with views fronting 6.1 The effects of any new development need to be considered value of the site. The development also proposes a new network onto to the road in light of the existing context and baseline scenario, which of internal footpaths which traverse the areas of open space 6.11 As illustrated by Photoviewpoints 1 and 3, views of the site in this instance includes the relationship of the site to the within the site. existing townscape and the containment afforded by the site’s from the east are heavily screened by hedgerow and tree planting along the sites eastern boundary. Any views afforded established landscape framework. With the introduction of new 6.7 The retention and enhancement of the hedgerow and tree onto the site are limited to between gaps in the boundary dwellings across the site, it is accepted that there would be a planting at the sites boundaries will ensure that the physical and planting. The proposals of the application site retain this change to the land use and nature of the site itself; however, visual separation between development and the surrounding boundary planting, meaning any development of the site would it is not an isolated location and the changes need to be countryside is maintained. Within the site, proposals are also be concealed and lead to a negligible change to the present considered in terms of how the local landscape will continue to sensitive to important views outwards incorporating vistas to the view experienced. be experienced once the development is complete. wooded skyline to the south and Clent Hills to the north east. 6.12 If and where views are afforded onto the site from along Pearl 6.2 Whilst there would be a direct loss or alteration to one or more 6.8 The free standing Oak trees within the site have been retained Lane, the addition of the proposed development will not be an elements/features/characteristics of the site, and the introduction and utilised as distinguishable landscape features in which areas uncharacteristic feature within the perceived landscape. The of new built form may appear prominent at close proximity, of open space are centred around. residential development is not uncharacteristic within this settled proposed development will be in keeping with the surrounding landscape. residential built context of Astley Cross to the east. Visual Effects Transient users to the north of the site along the A451 6.3 The site is part of a draft allocation in which the council has deemed it as suitable for development. The site is not associated 6.13 As illustrated in Photoviewpoints 8, views of the site when Visual Context with any nationally recognised or local designations which approaching Areley Kings from the A451 to the west are attribute to distinct landscape features. 6.9 As Set-out at Section 4 of this report, views towards the site are experienced against the existing settlement edge which forms largely limited to those from the local area, and from within 1km. the backdrop and skyline to the view. As viewed by this receptor, 6.4 At a localised level, the site contains a number of features which There are long distance views of the site obtained from the south the addition of the proposed development on the site from along attribute some form of distinct landscape features: east however approximately 3km away. the PRoW will not be an uncharacteristic feature within the landscape. The proposed development will be in keeping with • The site is contained by robust belts of tree planting which Receptors the surrounding built context whereby the proposed buildings provide both physical and visual enclosure; are of a similar height and massing to those at Areley Kings, 6.10 The following groups of people have been identified as having meaning the skyline and balance of elements in the existing view • The site contains a small number of free standing oak trees the potential to view the proposed development and experience will remain largely unaffected. which serve as distinguishable landscape features; visual change and impacts on their visual amenity resulting from the proposed development. This is due to the proximity and 6.14 The development has also been set back from the western edge • The site has a rolling topography which is typical of the nature / extent of view, as well as the activities and focus of the which will soften views whilst the provision of additional planting character area, and allows for views towards the wooded people likely to experience them: along the western boundary will further filter views of the site. skyline to the south; and Additional characteristic planting will also assist in filtering views • Transient users of Pearl Lane and residents with views fronting and integrating the perceived western edge. • A PRoW runs through the site from east to west, however is onto to the road (Representative Photoviewpoints 1 and 3) presently inaccessible due to overgrown and unmaintained 6.15 Photoviewpoint 10 illustrates the views experienced of the rapeseed crop. • Transient users to the north of the site along the A451 site whilst directly adjacent to its northern boundary on the (Representative Photoviewpoints 8 and 10) A451. As the viewpoint shows, views onto the site are limited to 6.5 Upon completion, the proposals would introduce 2 storey- between gaps in the boundary tree planting. The proposals of high residential development comprising high quality housing • Recreational users of the PRoW network to the south the application site retain and enhance this boundary planting, in keeping with the local vernacular, whilst also retaining the (Representative Photoviewpoints 4 and 9) meaning any development of the site would be concealed and settlement pattern and existing extents of development to the lead to a negligible change to the present view experienced. east at Astley Cross. • Long distance views from the south east (Representative Photoviewpoint 5) 6.16 Where visibility would be afforded onto the site from the 6.6 The more characteristic features of the site have been retained proposed access road, the views would comprise . The and used to inform the nature of development. The public proposals have been sensitively designed so that characteristic

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views towards the wooded backdrop to the south are retained and channelled along the route of the road.

Recreational users of the PRoW network to the south 6.17 Photoviewpoints 4 and 9 represent the composition of the view experienced from the public rights of way to the south of the site. The viewpoints demonstrate that only the more elevated areas of the site to the north are visible where the rising ground can be seen between gaps in boundary vegetation at the sites boundary and beyond. The woodland planting at Areley Wood sits on the skyline above the site in the view, whilst residential development at Areley King's frames the views within a settled-edge context Upon completion of the development, the proposed development will be perceived as a background component of the wider view.

Long distance views from the south east 6.18 As shown in Photoviewpoint 5, there are long distance views obtained from public footpath 519 and Lodge Bank across the gently rolling landscape towards the site. The site sits adjacent to Areley Kings settlement edge.

6.19 The proposed development will be perceived as a background component in wider, expansive views across the wider landscape, set against the built edge of Astley Cross. The proposal will not alter the composition of the views or the elements within them, being subservient to the landform of rolling lowland landscape. Furthermore, the proposed development will be in keeping with the surrounding built context whereby the proposed buildings are of a similar height and massing to those at Astley Cross, meaning the balance of elements in the existing view will remain unaffected.

Ernleye Meadows, Pearl Lane, Stourport-on-Severn Landscape and Visual Appraisal 30 2469/R07/EF/RH/January 2021 7 Conclusion

7.1 When considering the landscape and visual implications of • The site is contained by robust belts of tree planting which development it is important to recognise that any change to a provide both physical and visual enclosure; site which is partially greenfield land will result in landscape and visual implications. • The site contains a small number of free standing oak trees which serve as distinguishable landscape features; 7.2 The extent of these implications should be considered within the local context and the proposals degree of conformance • The site has a rolling topography which is typical of the with their surroundings. In addition, the implications need to be character area, and allows for views towards the wooded put in the planning balance with all other economic, social and skyline to the south; and environmental implications of the development. • A PRoW runs through the site from east to west, however is 7.3 The site is subject to a housing allocation for up to 250 units presently inaccessible due to overgrown and unmaintained in the emerging local plan, therefore deeming it as suitable for rapeseed crop. residential development. As demonstrated in the Opportunities and Constraints Plan and materialised in the Landscape 7.8 The proposals for the site have directly responded to these Strategy Plan, the proposals have been informed by the Policy landscape features by utilising them to shape the nature of 33.5 - AKR/14 requirements for the site. development.

7.4 Development proposals also adhere to the policy guidelines set 7.9 With regard to visibility, as the visual study of this report has out in both the existing Wyre Forest District Local Plan and the shown, the site generally sits within a well screened enclosure emerging Local Plan. This includes: whereby views from the surrounding area are limited.

• As illustrated in the Landscape Strategy Plan proposals using 7.10 It has been demonstrated that local views of the site are heavily local native species (Policy 11A and 11C); screened by the robust belts of tree planting along the sites northern, eastern and southern boundaries. Any visibility of the • Proposals reflecting the local character and appearance of site is limited to between gaps in the boundary planting. Astley Cross by (Policy 27A) 7.11 Views of the site from the north and west are obstructed by the • Proposals protecting existing trees and distinct landscape undulating landform of the wider area and intervening belts of features- including boundary vegetation, the Oak trees, and tree planting. the PRoW which rungs through the site (Policy 27C) 7.12 Views are afforded of the more elevated areas of the site from 7.5 Policy also requires that proposals should consider the the PRoW network to the south, however these views are appropriate landscape character assessments. The framed within a built-edge context due to the sites location Worcestershire County Council Landscape Character directly adjacent to residential development within the settlement Assessment 2011 acknowledges the site to be located within of Astley Cross. the Areley Kings Sandstone Estatelands 'Landscape Description Unit' - "An area of ...rolling lowland topography. The land use is 7.13 Likewise, long distance views of the site are obtained from the arable with a tree cover comprising thinly scattered hedgerow south east. The proposed development will be perceived as a and streamside trees, together with tree groups associated with background component in wider, expansive views across the settlement". wider landscape, set against the built edge of Astley Cross.

7.6 Importantly, the character assessment acknowledges the localised high impact of urban development at Areley Kings and Astley on the character of the Landscape Unit. This holds particularly true for the site which is located directly adjacent to Astley Cross' western settlement edge.

7.7 At a localised level, the site contains a number of features which attribute some form of distinct landscape features:

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